Coach Cook’s departure will be a loss for WCSU swim program

To the editor,

It was with a heavy heart that I attended the Western Connecticut State University Men and Women Swim team’s last home meet on Saturday, Jan. 27, under the coaching of Jill Cook. For the last 25 years, she has coached students not only on the pool deck but also helped them to navigate college life, many maintaining a high GPA.

Unfortunately, Coach Cook’s contract is not being renewed. If you have ever been to a WCSU swim meet, you can’t help but notice not only the camaraderie of the team but the respect the swimmers have for the coaching staff. The team has grown in the last five years, adding a men’s team as well six years ago. One must wonder about the reason behind this decision.

One must also wonder what is to become of the swim program as well. It is my opinion that swimming is not as highly respected as other sports but what many people may not realize is that these athletes are in unbelievable physical condition, swimming miles every season.

As I write this, WCSU’s men and women swimmers are competing in the Little East Conference Championships breaking team records and records of their own. This is yet another reflection of Coach Cook. A coach of her caliber is quintessential to the success of WestConn athletes, what a terrible loss to the athletic department at WCSU.

For the last 25 years, she has coached students not only on the pool deck but also helped them to navigate college life, many maintaining a high GPA. Unfortunately, Coach Cook’s contract is not being renewed.

Diane Lawrence Newtown